Champions Chelsea reduced to nine and beaten 3-2 by Burnley

It was a awful start to the season for the reigning champions as Skipper Gary Cahill was shown a straight red card after a very clumsy challenge on Steven Defour.

Morata's position in the starting line-up is even more crucial in the continued absence of out-of-favour compatriot Diego Costa.

Alvaro Morata nearly inspired a comeback as a second-half substitute, scoring before setting up a late strike for David Luiz, a goal that came after Cesc Fabregas' removal for a second yellow had seen Chelsea reduced to nine men.

Overall, this weekend represents a chance for Chelsea to begin on a high note.

As many of us remember, Sean Dyche's men have often allowed us to set the bar for the season, especially in the last few years. Me, I have to start to study a new formation with ten or nine players.

"I think these are good signings for us", Conte told Sky Sports on Wednesday.

But that would deprive Burnley their due for a disciplined, energetic and ruthless first-half display that saw them score three times, with Sam Vokes netting twice - a header and a volley - either side of a lashing angled drive from Stephen Ward. But for sure we want to try to fight, to fight until the end, to try to retain the title.

On the game itself, Conte says Burnley are a "really good team" who Chelsea must pay "great attention" to.

"After the red card we lost our heads, conceded two goals and then it's very hard to change the final result".

"In the transfer market the club is trying to do their best".

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had an answer, pointing to Chelsea sending numerous players out on loan, but Conte insisted: "I'm not looking for sympathy of any coaches for this situation".

"My only task is to be focused on the pitch and work with my players".

Chelsea down to 9 men.

No wonder the Italian coach cuts a frustrated figure heading into the start of Chelsea'sPremier League title defense.

"I think the top four will be Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal". Their first away trip in that unfortunate sequence was a 3-0 defeat - at Chelsea, on August 27. But you never know if he could pull off a couple of saves during the first half and go in at half-time, the Clarets may just grab a point and all thanks to their captain and goalkeeper.